World leaders, veterans mark D-Day’s 80th anniversary in France
Veterans and world leaders have gathered in Normandy, France, to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings on June 6, 1944. This significant event, where over 150,000 Allied soldiers arrived by sea and air to combat the forces of Nazi Germany, holds special importance this year due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.
In light of the situation in Ukraine, Russia, the aggressor in the conflict, was notably not invited to the ceremonies. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, emphasizing the importance of courage and determination in the fight for freedom and democracy, joined other world leaders in France for the tributes.
US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz, Britain’s King Charles, and Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, along with various political figures, participated in the day’s events. The commemoration began with a British ceremony in Ver-sur-Mer at approximately 08:30 GMT.
As part of the ceremonies, veterans, some over 100 years old, attended the events on the historic beaches where the D-Day landings took place. With the number of veterans dwindling, this is likely to be one of the final major ceremonies honoring their presence in Normandy.
Among the veterans participating was 101-year-old Bob Gibson, who vividly remembers his experience landing on Utah Beach. His poignant reflections on the events of that fateful day serve as a reminder of the sacrifices made by so many.
In his address, King Charles highlighted the importance of remembering the sacrifices made by the veterans and the enduring impact of their actions. Similarly, Prime Minister Sunak expressed gratitude to the veterans for their role in shaping a better world through their bravery and sacrifices.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, speaking at Juno Beach, emphasized the continued need to defend democracy and stand against threats to freedom. As attendees paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the US cemetery of Colleville-sur-Mer, the desire for peace in the face of ongoing conflicts was a prevailing sentiment.
As the world commemorates the 80th anniversary of the D-Day landings, the ceremonies in Normandy serve as a poignant reminder of the courage, sacrifice, and unity that defined that historic day and continue to inspire generations.
